A User’s Guide to Spherical Harmonics

Abstract

This pamphlet is intended for the scientist who is considering using Spherical Harmonics for some application. It is designed to introduce the Spherical Harmonics from a theoretical perspective and then discuss those practical issues necessary for their use in applications. I expect great variability in the backgrounds of the readers. In order to be informative to those who know less, without insulting those who know more, I have adopted the strategy “State even basic facts, but briefly.” This is a work in progress. If you find mistakes, or feel that important material is unclear or missing, please inform me at